The impact of sense of community on residents’ satisfaction, behavioral intentions, and life satisfaction in senior living communities

This study examined the impact of sense of community (SOC) on senior living community (SLC) residents’ satisfaction. Additionally, the influence of satisfaction on overall life satisfaction was examined. The current study further investigated the impact of satisfaction on word-of-mouth (WOM) intentions toward the SLC in which they currently reside and toward moving to any other SLC. The data were collected from 274 SLC residents in the US. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test the study hypotheses. The study found that all SOC dimensions significantly influenced residents’ satisfaction, and residents’ satisfaction positively impacted their satisfaction with life and WOM intentions toward the SLC, and toward moving to any other SLC. The study results offer substantial academic contributions by providing a deeper understanding of the factors influencing resident satisfaction and practical implications for SLC operators, suggesting strategies to improve resident satisfaction, and ultimately, foster positive word-of-mouth intentions.